4 Best Cheap Induction Cooktops
Looking for induction cooktops that hit the sweet spot between price and performance? You might be surprised by options offering 1800W of power, rapid boil capabilities in under 3 minutes, and precise temperature adjustments—often for under $100. While these models don’t boast high-end features, they reliably handle daily cooking tasks with safety features like auto-pan detection. Curious how these budget models stack up against premium brands? Stick around; you’ll find out which affordable choices deliver real value without sacrificing efficiency.
Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop
The Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop is a great option if you want a cheap, reliable stove that heats up quickly. It has a smooth, gold glass surface that measures about 11.5 by 13 inches and is only 2.5 inches tall. This makes it easy to carry and fits well in small spaces. With 1800 watts of power, it can boil two cups of water in just over two minutes. You only need a standard 120V outlet, which works with most North American homes.
The controls are simple push buttons. You can easily choose different power levels and temperatures. The cooktop also has safety features, like auto-pan detection, which stops heating if no pan is on it. Many people like this cooktop, giving it a 4.4-star rating from over 17,000 reviews.
Best For: This cooktop is good for people who need a small, fast, and affordable stove. It works well in apartments, RVs, or anywhere space is tight.
Pros:
- Heats up quickly, boiling water in just over two minutes.
- Easy push button controls with many power and temperature options.
- Small and light, so it’s easy to carry and store.
Cons:
- Has limited temperature options, mostly in 20°F steps, which may make fine control harder.
- You need cookware that works with induction. Non-magnetic pans need a magnetic disk to work.
- The fan makes noise while running, which might bother you if you like quiet.
Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop Burner
Looking for an affordable and easy-to-use induction cooktop? The Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop Burner is a good choice. It has 1800 watts of power. That means it heats up fast and cooks food evenly. This makes it good for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
The design is sleek and silver. It has simple LCD touch controls that are easy to use. The cooktop is lightweight and small, so you can carry it anywhere. It works with standard North American outlets. You can use it in small kitchens, for camping, or in an emergency.
This cooktop is energy-efficient, using about 83% of the electricity. It helps save power and money. It also has safety features like a child lock and auto-pan detection. These keep you safe while cooking.
Keep in mind, you need special cookware. It has to be magnetic and at least 5 inches wide. During use, it might make a high-pitched sound because of layered metals. Also, wait a bit before cleaning it to avoid damage.
If you want a reliable, portable, and affordable induction cooktop, the Duxtop Burner is a smart choice. It heats fast, saves energy, and is simple to use for everyday cooking.
ChangBERT Induction Cooktop, Commercial Grade Portable Cooker
Choosing the right induction cooktop is easy when you go for a commercial-grade model like the ChangBERT portable cooktop. It’s built to last and has plenty of power for busy kitchens or outdoor cooking. The cooktop has a large 8-inch stainless steel coil that heats up quickly and stays stable. It’s also NSF certified, so it meets safety and quality standards for commercial use.
This cooktop offers 9 preset power levels from 200W to 1800W. It also has 11 temperature settings, so you can cook exactly how you like. You can even use it with wet or gloved hands thanks to its easy controls. It weighs just 6.1 pounds, so it’s portable and easy to carry around. It can heat larger pots up to 12 inches, making it perfect for big meals or catering jobs.
This cooktop is a reliable choice for chefs, catering workers, or home cooks who need a tough, high-power cooker that works well indoors or outside.
Advantages:
- It heats quickly and keeps temperature steady for big pots.
- Made with durable materials and certified safe for commercial use.
- Easy to control with many preset options, even with gloves on.
Disadvantages:
- You need to use cookware up to 12 inches; not all pots will work.
- Some users notice the temperature overshoot, which takes some getting used to.
- It is heavier than smaller portable cooktops, so carrying it around can be a bit harder.
This induction cooktop is a strong choice if you want something that can handle heavy use and deliver good performance anytime you need it.
Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop
Looking for a small, affordable induction cooktop that works well and is easy to use? The Nuwave Flex Precision is a great choice. It has a smooth ceramic top that’s shatter-proof, so it stays safe and looks good even after lots of use. The cooking area has a 6.5-inch heating coil that heats up quickly and evenly.
You can choose from six different temperatures, from 100°F to 500°F. Each step adds 10°F, so you get precise control. There are three power levels—600W, 900W, and 1300W—and you can switch between them using simple buttons. The unit is lightweight at just over 5 pounds and measures about 10 by 12 inches. This makes it easy to carry and perfect for small kitchens, travel, or backup cooking.
This cooktop heats up fast and works well for boiling, simmering, or searing. It offers great control, so you can cook delicate sauces or sear steaks just right. Its compact size and portable design make it convenient to use almost anywhere.
Here are some good points about the Nuwave Flex Precision:
- Heats food quickly and evenly.
- Precise temperature adjustment with lots of settings.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
But, there are also a few things to watch out for:
- It doesn’t have a dedicated OFF button, which can lead to accidental turning on or wasting power.
- The heat can radiate from the outside, so be careful not to burn yourself or damage nearby objects.
- The cord is short, so it might be tricky to set up in some places.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cheap Induction Cooktop
When selecting a cheap induction cooktop, consider how flexible the price range is, since some options offer features worth a little extra investment. Think about whether you need high power levels—ideally 1500 watts or more—for faster heating—and if temperature controls allow precise cooking. Also, evaluate the size and portability, along with compatibility to guarantee your existing cookware, and don’t overlook safety features like auto shut-off, which can be just as important as a good price.
Price Range Flexibility
Budget-friendly induction cooktops usually cost between $50 and $150. This makes it easy to find options that work well without spending too much money. With this range, you can pick a simple model for basic cooking or spend a little more for extra features. These cooktops usually give power between 900W and 1800W. This affects how fast your food heats up. Some models may have fewer temperature or power levels. That may mean less precise control, but they still come with safety features. These include auto-pan detection and overheat protection.
You don’t need all the extra features. Knowing your budget helps you decide what to buy. It also makes it easier to pick a model that fits your needs today and still works well later. This price range gives you room to upgrade if you want. It helps you find a good, affordable cooktop for simple cooking tasks.
Power and Temperature Options
Power and temperature options help you pick the best induction cooktop for your cooking needs. If you want fast heating, look for models with at least 1500W. This helps you boil water or cook food quickly.
It’s also good to find a cooktop with many temperature settings. Aim for at least 10 or more. This gives you more control over your cooking, whether you want to simmer gently or sear quickly. Some cooktops let you set specific temperature steps, like every 10°F or 20°F. This makes cooking more precise and easier to manage.
There are models with built-in timers and preset modes. These features let you set your cooking time and forget about it. They give you better control without sitting by the stove the whole time.
Size and Portability
Choosing the right size for your induction cooktop is important. It helps you use the space well and makes carrying it easier. Smaller cooktops, about 10 to 12 inches wide and long, work great if you have little counter space. They are light, usually between 5 to 7 pounds, so you can carry them easily. Some even have handles or slim shapes, perfect if you travel, camp, or have a small kitchen. Because they are smaller, they can go on tables, countertops, or outside. Remember, the size also affects the cookware you can use. Most models work with pots and pans from 5 to 12 inches in diameter. If you want a cooktop that is easy to move and saves space, small models are a good choice. Just keep in mind, they might limit the size of your pots slightly.
Compatibility With Cookware
Before buying an induction cooktop, check if your pots and pans will work. Induction cooking heats food using magnetic fields, so not all cookware works well. To see if your cookware is good, hold a magnet to the bottom. If the magnet sticks firmly, it should work. Good options include cast iron, some stainless steel, and enameled cast iron. Always check the label or test with a magnet—no special tools needed.
Also, make sure your cookware is the right size. The best diameter is between 5 and 12 inches. If the cookware is too small or too big, your cooktop may not heat evenly or waste energy. Using the wrong cookware can cause problems. It might not heat at all, making cooking frustrating. So, always check if your pots and pans match your induction cooktop before you start cooking.
Safety Features Included
Safety features are very important for your induction cooktop. They help make sure it’s safe to use and protect your home. For example, automatic pan detection turns off the cooktop if no pan is on it. This helps prevent fires or burns. Overheat protection stops the cooktop from getting too hot, keeping everything safe. Child safety locks stop kids from turning on the cooktop by accident. Voltage warnings alert you if there is an electrical problem. Error messages tell you if something is wrong. The flat surface of the cooktop is safer than open flames because it reduces fire risks.
All these safety features work together to keep your cooking safe and easy. They make the cooktop reliable without costing a lot. This helps you cook with peace of mind and confidence.
Ease of Use
A user-friendly induction cooktop is easy to use. It has simple controls and clear screens. You can control it with push buttons or touch panels. These make changing the heat or time quick and easy. The screen shows only what you need, so you won’t get confused. It’s simple enough for beginners to use without reading a big manual. Plus, you can adjust the heat with easy +/- buttons or sliders for accuracy. This helps you avoid burning your food or ruining a delicate sauce. Safety is important too. Things like auto-pan detection and child locks help stop accidents. The cooktop is lightweight and small. It’s easy to carry or store. You can use it at home, outdoors, or in small spaces. Overall, a simple cooktop saves you time and frustration. It lets you focus on cooking and having fun in the kitchen.
Energy Efficiency
Two main things make an induction cooktop energy efficient. First, its overall efficiency rating shows how well it uses electricity. Most good models reach about 83%. That means most of the electricity turns directly into heat in your pan. Less heat escapes into the air, so you save energy and cook faster.
Second, an induction cooktop quickly transfers heat to your cookware. The flat surface heats up fast, saving time and electricity. It also has controls to set the right temperature. This prevents overheating and waste.
To get the most from your cooktop, use pots and pans with a magnetic base made for induction. These work best and heat evenly. When choosing a cooktop, look for these features. The cheapest model may not be the most efficient. Spending a little more can save energy and money over time.
Hello! I’m Eloise Wilson, the culinary enthusiast behind SimplyCookings. Cooking is my canvas and flavors are my palette. I’m here to share easy-to-follow recipes and kitchen wisdom that will make your cooking journey joyful and delicious. Join me and let’s turn everyday meals into extraordinary experiences!
